Fellow (FAPS)

Fellows are esteemed Members of the APS who strengthen the field of psychology and the Society through their expertise and their contributions to research, practice and/or policy.

Members are nominated to become Fellow of the APS.

Eligibility for Fellow of the APS

To become a Fellow of the APS, you must be nominated by an APS Fellow or Honorary Fellow and meet all of the following four criteria:

Engaged in psychological work for at least 10 years after becoming a Member of the APS, and

Made a substantial contribution to the activities of the APS over at least five years. This could be demonstrated by evidence of:

Active contributions such as editorial work for APS journals, writing submissions for the APS, representing the APS in media or public domains, participation in APS advisory or working groups, or invited contributions to specific projects.

Leadership at Branch, College, Interest Group, Board of Directors or other national committee level, and

Advanced knowledge of an area of psychology. This could be demonstrated by achievements in one or more of the areas listed below:

Further study and publication in an area of psychology, or in areas in which psychology has application;

Teaching at undergraduate or postgraduate levels in psychology and/or training that contributes to continuing professional development;

Experience and practice in an applied field of psychology, and

Made a substantial and innovative contribution to the advancement of psychological knowledge and/or professional psychological practice. This could be demonstrated by evidence in at least two of the following criteria:

Excellence in research and its dissemination, by the clear application of the Nominee’s psychological knowledge to theoretical or applied areas of psychology;

Excellence in teaching, supervision or training and innovation in course/professional development in theoretical or applied psychology;

Holding positions and undertaking leadership which has substantially encouraged other psychologists:

in their psychological research or practice; and/or

by administration and leadership e.g., through supervision of Honours and postgraduate students, or professional supervision, or holding an organisational position which encourages the professional development of others;

As an ambassador representing the profession or science of psychology to other professions, community groups, or in the public arena;

Excellence and innovative application of the Nominee’s expertise in psychology.

How to nominate an APS Member to become a Fellow

Consider your colleagues who have made a substantial contribution to the APS, and to the advancement of psychological knowledge or professional psychological practice.

Find out if they are interested in being nominated.

Complete the Fellow nomination form and submit to the APS by 30 April together with the nominee’s CV and covering letter.

Recruit three referees as per the requirements outlined in the guidelines. Submit three letters of reference to the APS prior to 31 May. Note that the nominator and seconder may also act as referee.​​

Application assistance

A well organised and focussed application is vital in showcasing a person’s expertise and contribution. If you would like assistance in putting together a Fellow nomination, writing a supporting reference, or advice on how best to put together a relevant CV, please contact Dr Sabine Hammond, FAPS, Executive Manager, Science, Education and Membership at the APS National Office on: